To subtract a shape from another shape in Illustrator using the Pathfinder panel (which effectively creates a mask by subtracting), follow these steps:
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Select Both Shapes: Use the Selection Tool (V) to select both the shape you want to subtract from and the shape you want to use as the subtractor. Make sure both shapes are overlapping.
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Open the Pathfinder Panel: Go to
Window > Pathfinder. This will open the Pathfinder panel, which contains various shape operations. -
Choose 'Subtract' (or 'Minus Front'): In the Pathfinder panel, click the "Subtract" button (also sometimes labelled "Minus Front"). This button typically shows two overlapping squares with the front square being removed. The topmost shape will be subtracted from the shape(s) behind it.
Explanation:
Illustrator's Pathfinder panel provides a non-destructive way to combine and subtract shapes. The 'Subtract' function (or 'Minus Front', depending on your Illustrator version) removes the area of the top shape from the shape(s) underneath. The resulting shape will take on the attributes (fill, stroke) of the bottom shape(s).
Important Considerations:
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Stacking Order: Ensure the shape you want to subtract is on top of the shape you are subtracting from. You can adjust the stacking order by selecting a shape and using
Object > Arrange > Bring to Front/Bring Forward/Send Backward/Send to Back. -
Compound Paths: For more complex subtractions involving multiple shapes, you might need to create compound paths first using
Object > Compound Path > Make.
By using the subtract function in Pathfinder, you are, in essence, creating a mask by removing parts of a shape based on another shape's outline. This is a powerful tool for creating complex designs and shapes within Adobe Illustrator.
